9 of the best Plus Size sewing patterns

We come in all shapes and sizes, so why shouldn’t our sewing patterns too? Get started on your me-made wardrobe today with our pick of the best patterns for curvier body shapes…

Making your own wardrobe to fit your unique measurements is something we’re passionate about. But just like on the High Street, we often see certain body shapes underrepresented when shopping for sewing patterns.

We’d love to see what you sew, and if you think we’ve missed a brand or website that should be in this list then let us know and we’ll add them to this post!

1. Luzerne Trench Coat, Deer and Doe

Main image (above). Oh how we love a trench coat. This close-fitting, unlined, double-breasted coat has princess seams, pleats at the front and back, diagonal welt pockets, and two-piece sleeves. It’s as much fun to sew as it is to wear!

2. Ipswich Swimsuit, Cashmerette

Get ready folks, it’s time to stretch those sewing with lycra/spandex skills! Make a splash with two cleverly color-blocked variations of this modern pattern. Sew it as a a one-piece swimsuit with a contrast waistband or a high-waisted bikini with piping detail. Both suits feature supportive straps, and an optional underwired foam swim bra and boning.

Prefer to wear a tankini? You’re in luck – there’s a free expansion pack available to turn this pattern into one.

Sizes: make it in US sizes 12 to 28 with various cup sizes (UK 14 to 30 but check Cashmerette’s size guide before you sew).

The Amber Dress is a modern twist on a peasant-style dress – great for a comfy Summer outfit or Autumn layering.

3. Amber Dress, Seamwork

This ultra-flattering sundress features a fitted bodice and a gathered tiered skirt. Wide straps make it bra-friendly and easy to adjust. Sew it in light-to-medium-weight woven fabrics such as cotton lawn, shirting, rayon, linen, double gauze, or chambray.

Sizes: Make it in US sizes 0 -26 (UK 6-28): check the pattern page measurement guide (link below) for details.

Colette’s Myrna Dress suits lightweight fabrics and is a great for beginners.

4. Myrna Dress, Colette

This feminine dress gathers at the shoulder and waist and you don’t need a lot of dressmaking experience to give it a go. It comes with two shaped waist yoke options, as well as two skirt lengths versatile and flattering results. Make it in lightweight woven fabrics such as cotton voile, lawn, rayon challis and silk crepe.

Sizes: 0-26 (US size, or up to size 28 in UK sizes – see the pattern page below for exact measurements).

If you’re new to dressmaking, make the Mimosa Blouse without ties for a simple, classic top.

5. The Mimosa Blouse, SBCC patterns

Specialising in patterns for petite body sizes, Skinny Bitch Curvy Chick offer sewing patterns for those of us who are “short in stature but not in attitude”. Their range of patterns caters for anyone for whom shopping on the high street for shorter body lengths and curvier shapes can be challenging.

The Harriet Bra: Why stop at outerwear when you can make your own plus size underwear too?

6. Harriet Bra, Cloth Habit

Get ready for some oomph! This bra sewing pattern has been created to balance sensual shape with practical support. Its underwired design features a balconette neckline, supportive scoop-back straps, and a 3-piece cup seam design that lifts and centers. If you’re up for a bra-making adventure, the pattern includes how to add an optional lace upper cup.

Sizes: The pattern comes in two UK size ranges: 28-42 (cup size E-H) and 28-42 (cup size A-E) but you can see how this converts to overseas sizing or check your size using their measuring guide.

The Tied Strap Midi Dress sewing pattern is part of Burda’s of their We Love Dresses collection for plus sizes.

7. Tied Strap Midi Dress, Burda

Burda have a range of patterns for plus sizes (check them out) but we picked this pattern for its relaxed drape and good balance of coverage. Tying bands adjust at the shoulder to fit and a tie belt at the waist adds shape.

Sizes: EUR 44-52 (UK 20-28) but see sizing chart to find the right size for you.

Make the Everyday Chic Dress in medium weight fabrics such as light denim, needlecord or heavy cotton linen.

8. Everyday Chic Dress, Sew Different

With its A-Line shape, half length raglan sleeves and wide boat neck with v-slash, there are so many features to love about this dress pattern. And that’s not even including the giant pockets. Available as a paper or digital pattern.

The Claudette Dress comes with 4 variations, giving you plenty of room to customise it to suit your style

9. Claudette, Colette Patterns

Claudette is a chic sheath dress with a fitted, lined bodice and a fitted, midi-length skirt. Sew it with a scoop neckline, long fitted sleeves and princess seams or opt for a v-neckline, ruffle cap sleeves, and French darts. Cowl and scoop necklines are also included.

This post is just a taster of what’s out there. For more inspiration, we recommend checking out the Curvy Sewing Collective – an online community with a great list of companies who do plus-size pattterns here Browse their hashtag #CurvyYearofSewing2018 to see what the rest of the sewing community are making. They also have some great blog posts on sewing and body positivity and a tried and tested reviews section of plus size patterns.

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